Bay Area Housing Suggestions, Part I
I found out that I’ll be moving again in the next few months, which has led me to fine pages of Craigslist to see just how much rent prices have escalated in the past year. It’s pretty scary to see studio apartments in marginal neighborhoods renting for over $1100 a month. It’s even worse if you are as picky as me and expect a fireplace and whirlpool tub.
Since it looks like camping is pretty much out of the question now that the City is cracking down on people sleeping in the parks, the next best option appears to be buying a boat. Not only do you get a great view of the water every morning when you wake up, you can move your house around. I could probably even commute on my boat if I buy one docked in Saulsalito or Berkeley! Considering the slip rental fee is usually between $200 and $400 a month, and there are very few apartments out there for under $900, this definitely looks like a winning situation.
The following photos were attached to a posting today, a 25′ sailboat with current registration selling for a measly $3500! For the price of a ten year old Ford Taurus you could be cruising the San Francisco Bay in style while spending less on your living expenses than any of your friends… and you would have a triangular-shaped bed! It doesn’t get any better than that.
sweet boat pictures courtesy of craigslist.comÂ
If you’re interested, click here to see the current listings of sailboats for sale. The only drawbacks I can see are:
- You would be living on a boat, which is prone to sinking. This could be a problem if you can’t swim, are afraid of sharks or don’t like 55 degree water.
- In many marinas, you aren’t allowed to live on your boat. This means no parties and keeping a low profile.
- If you don’t know how to sail, you’re pretty much stuck wherever it’s docked.
I found this great site with lots of helpful information if you want to learn more.